Appendicitis

Appendicitis, inflammation of the vermiform appendix, a worm-like structure situated in the lower right side of the abdominal cavity and attached to the cæcum (see DIGESTION, p. 815). The function of this appendix is unknown, but the organ is particularly subject to inflammation, and, like other vestigial structures, it possesses slight powers of resistance to disease. Appendicitis may be due to the presence of fecal masses or of foreign bodies, such as seeds, bristles, pins, worms, or gall-stones, and is often brought on by indigestion, by a strain or jar, or by a blow. Some of the symptoms are pain or tenderness in the abdomen, pressure, especially on the right side above the groin, indigestion, constipation, &c. Severe cases usually require the removal of the appendix ('appendicectomy').